As May draws to a close, my anxiousness for Secret Solstice fest swells within me. From the Glacier & Volcano side parties to the eclectic lineup, it’s an event that I can confidently say will change my life.
Coming from a mostly mainstream EDM palate, there’s no doubt in my mind that this lineup will open me up to a plethora of new genres and artists from all around the world. However, for this piece, my aim is to provide other attendees with a definitive guide to the must-see DJs set to perform in Iceland come mid-June.
While electronic act Die Antwoord are sure to amaze, they’re an obvious pick and therefore won’t be included in this list. Anyway, enough with the frivolities. Let’s begin!
Don’t forget to check out Secret Solstice’s full lineup & get tickets here!
5. Troyboi
The London-based protege of legendary hip/hop producer Timbaland, Troyboi is one of the most popular trap producers in the dance music scene today. With an official remix for EDM’s biggest duo, Jack Ü, as well as a huge collab with Diplo himself, there’s no doubt that the 28-year-old Troyboi is one of the most talked about DJs in bass music today.
Check out his hour-long mix for Diplo & Friends below for a taste of what’s to come this June in Iceland.
4. Art Department
Toronto duo-turned-solo act Art Department is set to headline Secret Solstice this year, and there’s no question as to why. Having previously ranked in DJ Mag’s top 10 and being behind one of the most timeless house anthems of all time from 2010, “Without You,” Art Department continues to be one of the most influential names in dance music to this day.
Come June, timeless beats and some of the most skillful and experienced hands behind the decks will combine for one of the most memorable performances of the weekend. Check out on of Art Department’s recent mixes below.
3. Skream
Dubstep pioneer turned tech house connoisseur, Skream is one of the most potent artists on Secret Solstice 2016’s lineup. Known for being vocal, especially about “EDM coming to an end,” we prefer to let the music do the talking, and there’s no doubt that Skream puts on some of the most interesting DJ sets around (and has for years). Check out his most recent mix from March below for a taste of what’s to come.
2. Goldie
Talk about a legend… Goldie has been active in the electronic dance music scene for 25 years now and shows no signs of slowing down. The man pioneered the use of time-stretching, something most modern producers probably presume has been around since the dawn of time, and the legacy that Goldie carries on his shoulders as a result is absolutely massive. I expect the stage to be packed for his set, and it’s one you absolutely shouldn’t miss. But, don’t take my word for it…
1. Jamie Jones
You knew it was coming! As one of the most popular DJs in the world and one of the biggest headliners enlisted by Secret Solstice, Jamie Jones is my #1 DJ to see this coming June. The house maestro has seemingly played every major event around the globe and for good reason. He sticks to more high-paced house jams than the likes of Skream and Art Department, and the accompanying energy draws a crowd – a big one.
I recommend you get there early for this performance… and come find me on the dance floor!